Discovery of microbial enzymes for biodegradation of plastic polymers

In an effort to reach zero waste in Canada by 2030, this work is dedicated to the discovery of microbes with enzymatic capabilities to biodegrade plastic. A library of microbes (bacteria and fungi) isolated from a range of marine environments will be screened for unique and novel plastic biodegrading activities. Preferred microbes will be selected for continued study and to develop novel enzymatic methods for depolymerization of plastic. The objective is to create a fully circular plastic economy where plastic waste can be recycled without a loss in quality and valorized into new products. The academic partner (UPEI), potential start-up (MultiGenZyme), and local economy (PEI) could all benefit from this technological advancement, but the true value lies in the positive environmental impact of reducing plastic pollution.

Faculty Supervisor:

Russell G. Kerr

Student:

Partner:

Springboard Atlantic Inc.

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Clean Technology; Life Sciences (not health); Sustainability & the Environment

University:

University of Prince Edward Island

Program: